The purpose of this program is to inform nurses about a number of diseases and conditions frequently seen in geriatric patients. After studying the information presented here, you will be able to:

• Describe the effects of arthritis on the hip and knee joints.
• Identify five nursing diagnoses and interventions relevant to the care of a person with a joint replacement.
• Describe the difference between Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• State blood pressure goals in patients with uncomplicated hypertension and in patients with diabetes or renal disease.
• Discuss the disease-related and age-related sexual changes for men and women.
• Describe common age-related medical and psychological conditions that affect the older driver’s safe mobility.
• Discuss the manifestation and treatment of anxiety and mood disorders.
• Describe the connection between oral and systemic health.
• Describe post-polio syndrome, its symptoms, associated health problems, and ways to help PPS patients manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Discuss the identification, pathophysiology, treatment, and nursing management of women with sexual dysfunction.
• Discuss insomnia’s effects on people across the life span, nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments, and nursing implications.
• Identify the incidence of and risk factors and diagnostic and treatment methods for endometrial cancer.
• Describe the incidence, etiology, identification, and treatment of colorectal cancer.
• Discuss BPH, including its risk factors, diagnostic measures, and treatment options.
• State the guidelines for assessing and managing the care of elders who experience tinnitus.
• Identify the signs and symptoms of shingles, treatment modalities, nursing interventions, and patient education issues.
• Identify strategies for reducing the spread of Clostridium difficile.
• Discuss measures to prevent elder abuse.
• Describe the concept of aging in place.
• Describe the characteristics of delirium, conditions under which delirium may occur, and nursing actions that are indicated.
• Discuss the prevalence of cataracts, their impact on quality of life, surgical treatment, and measures to take to ensure optimal functional vision.
• Describe how to recognize and prevent problems of polypharmacy in the elderly.